Received a USCIS/FBI Privacy Notice? Here's What You Need to Know
Many immigration applicants have received a letter titled 'FBI Privacy Requirements for Biometrics Collection by USCIS.' Here is what it means and whether you need to take action.
Immigration Information Update | October 2026
Have you recently received a letter from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) titled "FBI Privacy Requirements for Biometrics Collection by USCIS"?
Many immigration applicants have received this notice and are wondering whether it means something is wrong with their immigration applications.
The good news is that receiving this notice does not, by itself, indicate a problem with your case.
1. Why Did USCIS Send This Notice?
USCIS collects biometric information, such as fingerprints and photographs, to verify applicants' identities and conduct background checks.
According to the notice, USCIS has used the FBI's Continuous Immigration Vetting (CIV) process since 2017. This process involves ongoing checks of criminal history records.
Federal law also requires applicants to be informed about how their information may be collected, used, and shared.
2. Does This Mean USCIS Found a Criminal Record?
No. The notice alone does not mean USCIS has discovered a criminal record or identified a problem with your application.
This letter explains general background-check procedures and applicants' privacy rights.
It is not a denial notice, a Request for Evidence (RFE), or an accusation of wrongdoing.
3. Do You Need to Respond?
No. USCIS specifically states that no further action is required at this time.
You do not need to respond to this letter, submit new fingerprints, or pay an additional fee solely because you received it.
If USCIS needs additional information, it will send a separate notice.
4. What Rights Do Applicants Have?
Under federal law, applicants have certain rights concerning their FBI criminal history records, including:
- Notification: The right to know that biometric information will be used for criminal history checks.
- Access and Review: The right to request a copy of their FBI identification record.
- Correction: The opportunity to challenge inaccurate or incomplete information.
- Privacy Protection: Information must be used and shared for authorized purposes in accordance with applicable law.
5. Will This Notice Delay Your Immigration Application?
The letter does not indicate that your application has been delayed.
Receiving it alone does not establish the status of your background check or when USCIS will decide your case.
Continue monitoring your application and any correspondence from USCIS.
6. What Should You Do Now?
Keep the letter with your immigration records.
Continue following any existing USCIS instructions and attend scheduled appointments.
If you receive a separate Request for Evidence, biometrics appointment, interview notice, or other official instructions, respond as required.
Final Reminder
Receiving the USCIS/FBI Privacy Notice is not, by itself, a reason for alarm.
The notice explains how biometric information is used and what privacy rights applicants have.
For questions about your individual immigration case, contact USCIS or seek appropriate professional assistance.
Also available in: 简体中文 | 繁體中文
Official Resources
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Individual circumstances may vary.
Written by
VMS & Associates, Inc. — Providing immigration consulting and legal document preparation services in English and Chinese in the San Francisco Bay Area.
VMS & Associates, Inc. — Providing immigration consulting and legal document preparation services in English and Chinese in the San Francisco Bay Area..